Whimsical Wonders: Discover the Magic of Victoria, Canada

Discover family fun in Victoria, Canada's captivating city of adventures!

19 July 2023

Victoria, Canada offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with its stunning natural beauty and array of activities. The family can explore the iconic Butchart Gardens, discover marine wildlife at the popular Victoria Bug Zoo, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the charming Inner Harbour. With its vibrant atmosphere and numerous child-friendly attractions, Victoria promises to create cherished memories for the entire family.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Whimsical Wonders of Victoria

  • Start your day with a charming stroll through the picturesque Inner Harbour, marveling at the stunning architecture and vibrant floral displays.
  • Be captivated by the spellbinding beauty of the Butchart Gardens, where you'll wander through enchanting themed gardens and breathe in the fragrant blooms.
  • Unleash your inner explorer at the Royal BC Museum, where history comes alive through interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring artifacts.
  • Take a break and indulge in a delightful picnic at Beacon Hill Park, surrounded by ducks, peacocks, and the whimsical sounds of a distant ukulele.
  • Embark on an oceanic adventure with a visit to the Victoria Bug Zoo, where you'll come face-to-face with quirky critters that will make your skin crawl (in the best way!).
  • End your day on a high note with a relaxing horse-drawn carriage ride through the scenic streets, as you soak in the enchanting atmosphere of Victoria's charming neighborhoods.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Victoria by plane is to fly into Victoria International Airport (YYJ) from major airports in Canada or the United States. Direct flights are available from cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, Seattle, and San Francisco.

Car

If you prefer to drive, you can take the ferry to Vancouver Island, then drive to Victoria. The ferry ride is about 1.5 hours from Vancouver to Swartz Bay, and then it takes about 30 minutes to drive from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria. Alternatively, you can also drive from Seattle to Victoria, which takes about 3-4 hours.

Train

There is no direct train to Victoria, but you can take a train from Vancouver to Swartz Bay, which is a ferry terminal that connects to Victoria. The train ride from Vancouver to Swartz Bay takes about 3 hours, and then you can take a 35-minute ferry ride to Victoria.

Boat

One of the most scenic ways to get to Victoria is by taking a boat from Seattle or Vancouver. You can take the Victoria Clipper from Seattle to Victoria, which is a high-speed catamaran that takes about 2.5 hours. You can also take the ferry from Vancouver to Victoria, which is a scenic 1.5-hour ride through the Strait of Georgia.

Bus

Taking a bus to Victoria is convenient and affordable. The best option is to take a coach bus from Vancouver or Seattle to Victoria. The bus ride from Vancouver to Victoria takes about 4-5 hours, while Seattle to Victoria takes longer at around 6-7 hours. You can take the bus from Pacific Central Station in Vancouver, or from downtown Seattle.

More travel plans

Escape to Romance: A 4-Day Victoria Getaway

Victoria, Canada is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway! Known for its charming architecture, stunning gardens, and picturesque harbor, Victoria offers a serene and tranquil escape. Witness the magnificent sunset from a cozy bed and breakfast and relish in the romantic atmosphere of this beautiful city.

Victoria, Canada: A Whimsical 2-Day Family Adventure!

Victoria, Canada offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its charming blend of history, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities. Explore the iconic Butchart Gardens, where children can immerse themselves in colorful floral displays and enjoy the magical carousel ride. Make sure to take a stroll down the Inner Harbour, where you can spot seaplanes, play in the waterfront parks, and visit the interactive Royal BC Museum to learn about local indigenous culture and the vibrant history of the city.

The Ultimate 5 Day Victoria Adventure

A trip to Victoria, Canada can be an affordable option for those on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's history and culture through free walking tours and museums, enjoy the scenic views of the harbor and beaches for little or no cost, and stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or Airbnb rentals. Local markets and food trucks offer a variety of affordable dining options, and taking public transportation or walking can save money on transportation costs.

A Vibrant Long Weekend in Victoria, Canada

As a tourist in Victoria, Canada, visitors can explore the charming downtown area filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks such as the Empress Hotel and the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. The city's picturesque scenery offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hikes in regional parks, whale watching tours, and kayaking in the Inner Harbour. Visitors can also indulge in the city's rich culinary scene, especially its famous afternoon tea.